Willa Lawhorn

Obituary for Willa Jean Ryan Lawhorn

Willa Jean Ryan Lawhorn, age 93, of Sinking Spring, Ohio, passed away peacefully at her home of 76 years on Friday, September 5, 2025, with her cherished family by her side.

Born on March 6, 1932, in Adams County, Ohio, Willa Jean was the third child of Paul Ryan and Goldie "Dodie" Thomas Ryan. Affectionately known as "Willie," one of her greatest joys in life was gathering for sibling lunch with her beloved brother Paul Ryan Jr. (PJ), her sisters Vicki Knauff and Dixie (Jim) Stiegler, and her late sister Norma Crum.

In 1948, she married the love of her life, Robert "Bob" Mark Lawhorn, and together they built a life marked by laughter, mutual devotion, and a deep commitment to family and community. They shared 43 wonderful years of marriage before Bob's passing in 1991. Their love endures, and the family finds comfort in knowing they are reunited-celebrating their first heavenly anniversary together on September 9.

Willie will be remembered for her radiant smile, generous heart, and unwavering dedication to her family. She was a proud and loving mother to Rodney, Randy, and foster son, William "Bill" Garman, all who preceded her in death. She leaves behind her devoted and loving daughter, Marketta. Willie was a guiding light to her daughters-in-law, Robin (Swayne) of Hillsboro, and Wendy (Clark) of Lancaster. She was a deeply cherished grandmother to: Jennifer (Justin) Blackstone of Lancaster, Jered (Maureen) Lawhorn of Columbus, Ashton (Joe) Boggs of Chillicothe, Alexander (Whitney) Lawhorn of Sinking Spring, and a proud great-grandmother to Maverick, Beau, Maeve, and Emmitt. She genuinely lived by the saying "never met a stranger," forming countless friendships that span generations.

The Sinking Spring School secretary for 25 years, she whole-heartedly and lovingly supported the staff and students. Willie's home was a haven of warmth and welcome. Whether you stopped by for a cup of coffee, a slice of blackberry pie, a bowl of beans, or a mound of mashed potatoes, you always left feeling nourished in body and spirit. Her kitchen table was a place of laughter, heartfelt conversations, and unconditional love.

A lifelong learner and curious spirit, she embraced the Internet with enthusiasm, staying connected to the world and her wide circle of friends through Facebook-often from her cozy kitchen "office." Creative and compassionate, she loved painting, sewing, and crocheting, and was always quick to lend a hand or offer a listening ear to anyone in need.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00pm on Friday, September 12, 2025, at the Sinking Spring Community Church at 23 Main Street, Sinking Spring, Ohio. Burial will follow at the Locust Grove Cemetery with Rev. Greg Seaman officiating. Friends may call from 11:00am until the time of service on Friday at the church. Thompson Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in her memory to Hope House Christian Counseling Center, 24 E Water Street, PO Box 147, Sinking Spring, Ohio, 45172, or a charity of your choice.

Willa Jean Ryan Lawhorn touched countless lives with her kindness, resilience, and quiet strength. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. The world is truly better because she was in it.